Too Many Deer!
Turriville is a mainly rural area located in northeastern Pennsylvania. There are rapidly growing housing subdivisions, surrounded by some farms and forests. Homeowners in the development have expressed concerns about deer damage to landscaping around their homes. Hunting is illegal in the subdivision. Many surrounding farmers do not allow hunters on their land. Hunting is permitted in the forest regions.


Under natural conditions, most animals, including deer, produce more young each year than their habitat can support. Unless something is done to increase the carrying capacity of the habitat, the same number that are added must die. This yearly surplus that must die could be old, sick, injured, or young animals. It could also include animals in prime condition. Deer populations can be kept under control only by eliminating the annual increase.

But how will those animals be eliminated? That is the big question. Most people agree that the deer herd must be managed. In this activity, you will explore the advantages and disadvantages of deer management options. As the wildlife manager for this area, what strategies will you use to manage the deer herd in Turriville?

Your assignment is to create a PowerPoint presentation to present to the Turriville city council. Information that needs to be included:
  • the history of the deer population in Pennsylvania
  • What problems can the overpopulation of deer cause in Turriville?
  • Choose 5 options to investigate (see the list below).
    • For each option:
      • explain the details of the option
      • list the advantages of the option
      • list the disadvantages of the option
      • describe the costs involved with implementing the option
  • Choose the option you believe is the best solution to the problem in Turriville. Explain why you choose this plan to be implemented with specific details of your plan.
  • A list of the websites and any other resources you used

Possible Options for Deer Management in Turriville:
  • Do nothing – allow nature to take its course
  • Establish a regulated hunting season
  • Control deer herds with sharpshooters
  • Trap and euthanize deer
  • Trap and transfer excess deer to other areas
  • Introduce large predators
  • Use fencing to restrict deer movements
  • Use repellants to control damage
  • Implement supplemental feeding programs
  • Use contraceptives
  • Sterilize deer